By Ebuka Goodluck|ABNews| December 2, 2025
Abuja — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday led a fresh national call to honour Nigeria’s fallen heroes and care for wounded soldiers, as he, the National Assembly and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory pledged a total of N320 million to the Nigerian Legion during the launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem Appeal at the Presidential Villa, ABNews reports.
President Tinubu announced a N200 million donation to the Legion, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of serving and retired military personnel, as well as families of officers who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation.
In a show of solidarity, the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, jointly pledged N100 million on behalf of the National Assembly, while the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, added N20 million.
The President, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Senate President, the Deputy Speaker and service chiefs were later decorated with the traditional Remembrance Day poppy by the Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Grace Henry, symbolising national gratitude for military sacrifice.
Addressing attendees, President Tinubu urged government institutions, corporate organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to contribute generously to the Legion, which provides support for veterans, widows and families of fallen service members.
“As a grateful nation, we must honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answered the call to serve,” the President said. “Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a reminder of the importance of unity, peace and shared responsibility.”
Calling for national cohesion, he added that Nigeria’s diversity must be upheld as a strength, urging citizens to reject divisive rhetoric and embrace respect and tolerance.
The President also highlighted measurable gains in the fight against insecurity, noting improved inter-agency cooperation and enhanced military capabilities across the Army, Navy and Air Force.
“Tens of thousands of insurgents have surrendered, key terrorist leaders have been neutralised, and many captives have been freed. In our maritime domain, oil theft, piracy and illegal fishing have been curbed,” he stated.
He further revealed that his administration has improved the condition of service for personnel by increasing allowances, upgrading military barracks, strengthening healthcare services and modernising pension verification through the integration of BVN and NIN systems.
Speaking on behalf of the armed forces, the Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described the emblem as more than a symbol, but a national pledge never to forget those who served.
“When we wear this emblem, we say to our veterans, Nigeria remembers you. When we support the appeal fund, we affirm that Nigeria cares,” Oluyede said, thanking the President for improved support in areas of equipment, training and welfare.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, noted that the annual remembrance event celebrates the bravery of soldiers who died protecting the country and honours those still standing guard against threats such as terrorism, insurgency and banditry.
“In many communities once torn by conflict, life is returning — schools have reopened, markets are active again, and families are rebuilding. These quiet victories remind us of the price our troops continue to pay for peace,” he said.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day is marked every 15th of January in honour of Nigeria’s fallen soldiers and living veterans.
— Report compiled by ABNews from statements issued by the State House and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga (December 2, 2025).
